(Puh-LAH-teez) is a comprehensive whole body exercise system designed to balance, lengthen and strengthen the body's muscles. The exercises focus on both mobilizing and stabilizing the abdominals, back and pelvis.

   


The Pilates method of exercise was created by Joseph Pilates, who was born in 1880 near Dusseldorf, Germany. Joe was frail as a child, suffering from asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever. He overcame his physical limitations with exercise and body building, becoming a model for anatomical drawings at the age of 14. He became accomplished in many sports, including skiing, diving and gymnastics. Joe went to England in 1912, where he worked as a self-defense instructor for detectives at Scotland Yard. At the outbreak of World War I, Joe was interned as an "enemy alien" with other German nationals. During his internment, Joe refined his ideas and trained other internees in his system of exercise. He rigged springs to hospital beds, enabling bedridden patients to exercise against resistance, an innovation that led to his later equipment designs. An influenza epidemic struck England in 1918, killing thousands of people, but not a single one of Joe's trainees died. This, he claimed, testified to the effectiveness of his system.
   
 

· Overall strength and improved flexibility and coordination
· Primary focus on core muscles (abdominals, back and pelvic floor)
· Develops proper posture through the redistribution of body weight
· Increase lung capacity
· Improves bone density and joint health
· Supports rehabilitation of soft-tissue injuries
· Reduces stress and increases energy levels
· Heightens body awareness and promotes positive self-esteem
· Enhanced balance and concentration skills that you can apply to other aspects of your life
   
 

How many times a week should I practice Pilates?
You will benefit from any amount of classes you take. We suggest practicing Pilates two to three times a week, with any combination of privates, matwork and homework! We encourage clients to take a few privates in the beginning to receive individual attention, learn modifications and create personal goals.

What do I need to bring?
All you need to bring is your willingness to learn, we provide thick mats at no rental cost. Wear loose, comfortable clothing; however pants with excessive buttons, snaps and zippers are not advised. You can be barefoot or bring socks.

What if I'm out of shape?
Regardless of your current level of fitness, if you are a beginner or feel out of shape, don't worry. Pilates is low impact and any of our beginner, core principles and stretch classes move at a slower pace to provide optimal understanding of this work.

Can I do Pilates if I have an injury?
If you have any injury or other health concerns, we encourage you to schedule a private session before beginning any group classes.